How to Alter a Men’s Suit at Home
When you find the perfect suit but it just doesn’t fit quite right, it can be tempting to toss it aside and search for a new one. However, with a few simple steps and some basic alterations, you can transform your suit into a perfect fit right in the comfort of your own home. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to alter a men’s suit at home, ensuring you can look your best without breaking the bank.
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials and tools. You will need a sewing machine, a pair of scissors, pins, thread, and possibly a seam ripper. It’s also a good idea to have a tailor’s ham and a sleeve roll to help with the shaping of the suit.
1. Adjusting the Sleeves:
The sleeves are often the first part of a suit that needs altering. To adjust the sleeves, first, remove the suit jacket from the pants. Pin the sleeves at the desired length, making sure to leave enough room for movement. Next, use the seam ripper to carefully remove the excess fabric from the sleeve seam. Re-thread your sewing machine and sew the sleeve back together, using a straight stitch. Trim any excess thread and repeat for the other sleeve.
2. Shortening the Pants:
If the pants are too long, you can easily shorten them by cutting the bottom hem and then re-sewing it. First, mark the desired length on the pants and then cut off the excess fabric. Fold the hem back up to its original position and pin it in place. Use a zigzag stitch to sew the hem back on, making sure to leave a small opening to turn the pants right side out. Finally, hand-stitch the opening closed.
3. Altering the Waist:
Adjusting the waistband is a common alteration for men’s suits. To do this, measure the desired waist size and mark it on the inside of the waistband. Then, cut the excess fabric from the waistband and sew it back together using a straight stitch. Trim any excess thread and iron the waistband flat.
4. Adjusting the Cuffs:
Men’s suit cuffs can often be too tight or too loose. To adjust the cuffs, remove the suit jacket and pin the cuff at the desired width. Cut the excess fabric from the cuff seam and sew it back together using a straight stitch. Trim any excess thread and iron the cuff flat.
5. Final Touches:
After making all the necessary alterations, take a moment to check your work. Make sure all seams are even and that the suit fits comfortably. If you notice any loose threads, trim them and use a needle and thread to secure them. Finally, iron the suit to remove any wrinkles and ensure a polished look.
By following these simple steps, you can learn how to alter a men’s suit at home and save money on professional tailoring services. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to make your suit look like it was made just for you.
